Table 4 Multivariable logistic regression modelling of sources of information used when researching dog ownership and/or which breed/crossbreed to purchase prior to purchasing a puppy (n = 3798), with comparisons between designer crossbred puppy owners (n = 1155) and purebred puppy owners (n = 2643) in the UK. Significant associations (p <  0.05) are emboldened. ^aFootnote

A breed/crossbreed-specific online resource (e.g., website/forum)

75.2

50.4

2.81

2.35-3.35

<  0.001

Talking to friends or family who own or had owned a dog

74.3

57.8

1.66

1.38-2.00

<  0.001

Social media sites, e.g., Facebook, Instagram

52.8

42.7

1.42

1.21-1.67

< 0.001

An animal charity website, e.g., Dogs Trust, RSPCA, PDSA, etc.

52.6

34.6

1.94

1.64-2.29

< 0.001

Talking to a dog breeder

42.9

53.4

0.60

0.51-0.70

< 0.001

The Kennel Club website

37.5

59.4

0.34

0.29-0.40

< 0.001

Book(s)

35.4

33.1

0.91

0.77-1.08

0.269

My veterinary professional (e.g., veterinary surgeon, veterinary nurse)

10.2

12.4

0.83

0.64-1.07

0.158

Other digital sources (e.g., articles on the internet, TV shows)

4.07

2.84

1.53

1.00-2.33

0.049